#2536 - Eric Goode & Jermey McBride

Overview

This episode features filmmakers Eric Goode and Jeremy McBride, known for their work on Tiger King and Chimp Crazy, discussing their latest docuseries, Monsters of God. The conversation dives into the dark and fascinating world of exotic animal trade, the psychology of collectors, and the unintended consequences of wildlife conservation efforts. The trio also explores the cultural and ethical complexities surrounding humanity's relationship with animals, particularly reptiles and other exotic species.

Notable Quotes

- We’re the monsters, not the reptiles. We’ve done a lot of damage in the past. – Eric Goode, on the human role in wildlife exploitation.

- Illegal wildlife trafficking represents about a $20 billion a year industry—only behind guns, drugs, and human trafficking. – Jeremy McBride, on the scale of the illegal wildlife trade.

- People get into it, they get addicted, they buy more and more, and then they get divorced or burned out. It’s a lot of work taking care of a lot of reptiles. – Eric Goode, on the obsessive nature of exotic animal collectors.

🐍 The Dark World of Exotic Animal Trade

- The docuseries Monsters of God explores the global reptile trade, which has contributed to ecological disasters like the Burmese python invasion in Florida.

- Eric Goode and Jeremy McBride reveal how the illegal wildlife trade is a $20 billion industry, intertwined with drug and arms trafficking.

- Reptiles are particularly vulnerable due to their portability; smugglers often hide them in suitcases or even inside other animals.

- The filmmakers discuss the role of cultural demand, particularly in Asia, where exotic animals are sought after for pets, status symbols, and traditional medicine.

🦎 The Psychology of Exotic Animal Collectors

- Many collectors are drawn to the rarity and living art aspect of exotic animals, treating them like baseball cards or luxury items.

- The reptile trade attracts a mix of obsessive personalities, from herp people (reptile enthusiasts) to individuals with criminal backgrounds.

- Eric Goode shares his own journey from being a closeted reptile guy in New York City to becoming a conservationist and filmmaker.

🌍 Conservation and Unintended Consequences

- The filmmakers highlight the complexities of wildlife conservation, including how well-intentioned laws can lead to unintended outcomes, such as increased black-market activity.

- They discuss the challenges of reintroducing endangered species like the ploughshare tortoise to their native habitats, where they risk being poached again.

- The conversation touches on the success of the Endangered Species Act in reviving species like bald eagles and alligators, while noting the ongoing challenges in protecting less charismatic species like reptiles and insects.

🦅 Cultural Fascination with Animals

- The episode delves into why certain animals, like eagles and pandas, are celebrated, while others, like reptiles, are vilified.

- Joe Rogan and the guests discuss how pop culture, religion, and anthropomorphism shape public perceptions of animals. For example, movies like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park have driven demand for exotic pets like owls and reptiles.

- The trio also explores the darker side of cultural practices, such as the consumption of endangered species like giant salamanders and tiger parts in Asia, often as status symbols or for supposed medicinal benefits.

🦠 Wildlife Trafficking and Public Health

- The discussion touches on the role of wildlife markets in the spread of zoonotic diseases like COVID-19, with Eric Goode acknowledging the possibility of a lab origin but emphasizing the risks posed by these markets.

- The filmmakers describe the scale of wildlife markets in Asia, where animals are sold for pets, food, and traditional medicine, often under inhumane conditions.

- They stress the importance of raising awareness about the ecological and ethical implications of the exotic animal trade.